There are many schools of thought when it comes to make up. Some of us fall firmly into the ‘less is more’ category, where a little bit of lippy and not much else will suffice, while others prefer a stronger look with fuller coverage. There’s no right or wrong way to make up your face, and we think that every person should do what makes them comfortable, but there are a few things that professional make up artists do which makes their work stand out. Here’s a few of them:
Prep Your Skin
Any make up artist worth their salt will spend time preparing your skin before they begin their work. Would Picasso have painted on a dirty canvas? No. They’ll expect your skin to be clean when they start working, but they’ll usually apply a moisturiser and a primer at the very least. Some will even want to use skin oils, and most will finish with an hydrating setting spray.
Use the Right Tools
If you’re still using the foam applicator that comes with your eyeshadow, you’re never going to get that ultra-blended look that a professional would. This is because make up artists know that their brushes are their most important asset. Invest in brushes which are the best you can afford and your techniques will improve in no time. Keep them clean and hygienic with Elemis Tea Tree S.O.S. Spray.
Conceal, Don’t Reveal
There’s a growing trend for using concealer which is either a light or darker shade than your skin, but to properly conceal, you need one which is the exact same tone as your skin. Choosing a concealer a shade lighter or darker than your natural skin tone will always result in the “goggle” or raccoon effect. Ideally, your concealer will completely mask whatever discolouration is underneath.
Contouring is Your Friend
The trend for contouring has, frankly, gone a bit bonkers. It might look amazing on camera, but some of the YouTube tutorials leave you looking downright bizarre to the naked eye. However, contouring is still a great technique to learn if you can keep it subtle as it can highlight the good parts of your face as well as minimising any bits you’re not so keen on.
BLEEEEEND!
If there’s one thing that will ruin your whole make up look, and reveal that it’s been done by an amateur, it’s forgetting to blend properly. When we say properly, we mean all the way under your chin, all the way into your hairline and even on to the little bit at the front of your ear, especially if you’re planning to wear your hair up. Seeing the line between skin and foundation is a huge no-no!